Georgia recognizes different types of theft crimes in addition to theft by taking, or depriving someone of his or her personal property. Understanding the laws and potential penalties can help someone facing these charges determine the appropriate actions.
Review the categories of theft in Georgia and the possible associated legal consequences for a conviction.
Theft by deception
This category refers to theft that involves deceiving or committing fraud against the victim to obtain the property in question. Examples include:
- Failing to perform paid-for services
- Selling someone property with an open claim or lien
- Preventing someone from getting information about their personal property
- Failing to correct or creating a false impression of an event that resulted in the theft
Theft by shoplifting
Shoplifting specifically involves taking merchandise from a store without paying. Georgia categorizes shoplifting as theft committed by changing price tags, putting items in a different container or concealing items and leaving the store with them.
Theft by conversion
With this offense, a person diverts funds given to him or her for a specific purpose for personal use. Often, the offender is an employee of a financial institution or serves as the officer or treasurer of a business or organization.
Georgia considers any type of theft a misdemeanor if the value of the stolen items totals less than $500. A convicted person can receive up to 12 months in jail along with a fine. Stealing goods exceeding $500 in value constitutes felony theft in Georgia, resulting in a minimum of 12 months in prison along with a fine.
